Tree-Ring Analysis of Timbers from Exeter Cathedral, Exeter, Devon: Part 3 (Western Roof, Bays 1-4)
Author(s): Alison Arnold, Robert Howard, R R Laxton, Cliff Litton
Dendrochronological analysis of eighty-four samples from the western four bays of the nave roof, frames 129-59, produced seven site chronologies, three of which dated. The main sequence consists of forty-nine new samples, its 189 rings spanning AD 1149 to AD 1337. A second site chronology comprises five samples its 126 rings spanning AD 1195 to AD 1320. A third dated site chronology contains six samples with 142 rings. This site chronology spans the period AD 1780 - AD 1921. Four other site chronologies, one consisting of three samples, two of two samples each, and one of four samples, with between 77 and 116 rings, remain undated. Thirteen samples remain ungrouped and undated. The medieval timbers used in the western bays of the nave indicate an overall felling date range of AD 1306-83. However, further analysis and interpretation of the heartwood/sapwood boundaries, the date of complete sapwood rings, and the position of timbers within the roof, would suggest that the felling of such timbers was largely complete by the mid AD 1340s. Later timbers sampled, mostly raking shores, represent work undertaken in the AD 1920s.
- Report Number:
- 49/2003
- Series:
- CfA Reports
- Pages:
- 77
- Keywords:
- Dendrochronology Standing Building
